What is the purpose of the National Archives regarding classified materials?

The National Archives plays a crucial role in the declassification and management of historical classified information. Its primary purpose is to ensure that once classified materials reach a certain age or no longer meet the criteria for classification, they are properly reviewed and declassified if appropriate. This process supports transparency and allows the public to access historical government documents that were once restricted.

The National Archives also oversees the management of classified information by maintaining records and ensuring that they are kept securely during the classification period. When information is declassified, the Archives makes it available to historians, researchers, and the public, thereby contributing to the preservation of history and the accountability of government actions.

Other options are misleading or incorrect in this context. For instance, classifying new sensitive information is typically a responsibility associated with the originating agency, not the National Archives. While it stores documents, the intent is not to keep them indefinitely without reviewing for declassification. Additionally, there are strict protocols regarding access to classified information; not all personnel can access this information, which counters the notion of providing universal access.